Why Donating Cryptocurrency Could Be Your Best Tax Move This Year
The realm of cryptocurrencies is not only burgeoning but also profoundly transformative, marked by rapid changes and innovations. For many investors who entered the crypto market early, the rewards have been significant, often resulting in substantial returns on their investments. However, with these financial gains come hefty tax implications that are hard to ignore, especially when tax season rolls around.
If you're seeking effective ways to manage the tax burden associated with your cryptocurrency investments, you might want to consider a philanthropic approach this tax seasondonating your crypto to charitable organizations. This strategy could not only mitigate your tax liability but also contribute positively to society.
According to Adam Nash, the CEO and co-founder of Daffy, a platform specializing in donor-advised funds, the tax code provides generous avenues for charitable deductions. Nash elucidates that taxpayers can deduct donations of various assets, including cryptocurrency, up to 30% of their adjusted gross income in a given year. This presents a unique opportunity for investors looking to make a substantial impact while also receiving tax benefits.
Research from Fidelity underscores that several types of assetsincluding stocks, bonds, mutual fund shares, and cryptocurrenciesare eligible for donation. This flexibility allows donors to choose the most beneficial strategies for their financial situations.
Furthermore, if you happen to own cryptocurrency that has appreciated in value for over a year, you're in an advantageous position, according to Nash. By donating such assets, you can avoid the capital gains taxes that would typically apply to these gains. He states, Youll reap the benefits of one of the most generous deductions in the tax code. When you donate crypto that you have held for more than a year to a qualified public charity, the IRS considers the donation value to be the fair market value of the asset at the time. This means that the donation is valued at its current market rate rather than the price you initially paid for it.
Additionally, Ephraim Olson, co-founder of CPAI, a tech-focused platform for cryptocurrency tax reconciliation and filing, emphasizes that donating appreciated assets can greatly enhance tax savings. He explains, Provided all the rules are followed, the donating taxpayer is able to deduct as a contribution the fair market value of the property even though their cost of the property is much lower. This means that donors can benefit from the appreciation in value without first incurring tax liabilities on those gains.
The financial advantages of this strategy are significant. Nash notes that for those who opt to itemize their tax deductions, donating appreciated cryptocurrency can not only lead to tax savings but also provide more resources for charitable causes. This means donating appreciated crypto can result in money saved for the taxpayer and more money for the charity, he adds.
In conclusion, as tax season approaches, it's worth considering the potential benefits of donating your cryptocurrency. Not only could this move be financially savvy, but it also allows you to support causes that you care about, all while navigating the complexities of tax obligations in a thoughtful manner.